2009 Executive Office news releases

Devastating floods hit King County in Jan 2009
County crews clearing mudslides, Public Health providing mutual aid

King County Executive signs emergency proclamation
In response to record river flows, flooding, land slides and other damage from severe weather, King County Executive Ron Sims this morning signed a Local Proclamation of Emergency to help county staff continue their quick response to damage.

Local proclamation of emergency
WHEREAS, the King County Office of Emergency Management has reported to the King County Executive that severe flooding and landslides have impacted the King County region since January 7, 2009, causing significant damage to King County government departments and infrastructure as well as cities, special purpose districts and infrastructures; and

County Executive to tour flood damage
Media are invited to join King County Executive Ron Sims at St. Mathews Lutheran Church (1700 Edmonds Ave. NE, Renton WA) at approx 9:45 a.m. Friday morning where he will meet with evacuees and get a briefing from flood control managers about the magnitude of flooding on King County Rivers compared to previous flood events.

County experiences historic flooding
The powerful tropical storm that has brought heavy rain across King County this week is now pushing some rivers to what could be record levels. Meanwhile, roughly two dozen roads are already closed across King County, and motorists are urged not to take risks and adhere to all emergency road closures.

Prepare for heavy rain
King County residents will have another chance to test their emergency preparedness as the National Weather Service is forecasting large amounts of rain in our region through Thursday morning. With the possibility of urban and rural flooding, increased snow load, landslides and avalanches, King County departments are gearing up to respond to wet weather conditions and are urging residents to prepare their families and homes for potential power outages or flooding.

Jail improvements
Today, King County Executive Ron Sims announced a proposed agreement with the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) that addresses previous issues concerning jail operations and establishes measures that continue ongoing improvements. The proposal is now being transmitted to the King County Council for review and authorization.

County, cities reach tentative agreement on jail services
The agreement would provide three more years of service and additional jail beds for cities, and cost recovery for King County based on services provided.

King County Executive News Conference: Metro
King County Executive Kurt Triplett is making an announcement about Metro Transit’s biennial budget.